Why We Eat Chili
Dear EBC family,
The EBC Chili Cookoff and Silent Dessert Auction is this coming Friday, June 13, from 6-8pm. Like most people, I believe delicious chili is in itself reason enough to come take part. I mean, just thinking about sampling some of the best chilis from the chefs of our church family makes my mouth water. (And my forehead break out in a light sweat.)
But we are a church, not a foodie club, and our mission is to make disciples, not chili. So why are we having a chili cookoff? The purpose of this delicious event is to support our team of youth who will be serving Jesus at Rock Nest Ranch next month. We aim to do that in three ways.
- Meet the Team
We have 33 people on this summer mission team, including 23 students and 10 adults. This is a large team! Most of them will be present at this event and you will have a chance to meet them. Our hope is that you will take interest not only in eating chili but in connecting with the team members. - Hear the Vision
Why is our team going to Rock Nest Ranch? To have fun hanging out with friends and seeing new places? That is undoubtedly a benefit, but it is not primary. Just as we aim to care about discipleship more than chili, our team intends to care about mission more than fun. The team is going in the name of Jesus to serve First Nations children coming to summer camp at Rock Nest Ranch. As we eat chili, we will take a few minutes to hear what ministry at Rock Nest Ranch looks like, and how we can be praying for them. - Raise the Funds
There is no charge to come to the Chili Cookoff, but donations will be encouraged to support the Rock Nest team. There will be a donation box for checks and cash as well as a QR code for online gifts. All funds raised will help cover the cost of transportation and other mission expenses. If you are interested in donating at any time, you can do that on our website or app by selecting Rock Nest Youth Mission Trip on the dropdown tab.
But what about the chili? Oh yes! That’s the last thing.
- Bring the Chili (or a side, or dessert)
You are welcome to simply come and enjoy some tasty chili. But we are trusting many of you will help provide the food.
– Bring a batch of chili and your own serving spoon, hot and ready to eat (chili will be set up outside the front doors on tables; no plug-ins will be available).
– Bring sour cream, shredded cheese, cornbread, chips, or salad, ready to serve.
– Bring a dessert for the silent auction on a plate you don’t need back (desserts will be set up on tables in the foyer).
See you Friday!
Pastor Toby